July 28, 2000

John Magnan's new exhibit of sculptures has a special meaning for him. That's because they were inspired by his wife, Mary, and the struggles she went through while battling ovarian cancer. Magnan's exhibit – called body image ~ body essence – was previewed at the MGH July 17 prior to its exhibition at the Boston Museum of Science during the month of September, at St. John Boutique on Boylston Street, Sept. 14 to 17, and at the New Bedford Art Museum in February 2001. An opening reception at the Museum of Science to promote ovarian cancer awareness will be held Sept. 11, featuring speakers from the MGH.

It was shortly after her diagnosis that John Magnan set to work on the 15 sculptures that comprise his exhibit.

"As caregiver and husband of a woman diagnosed with ovarian cancer, I witnessed first-hand the fears, pains, tears and lifestyle compromises attendant to the disease, as well as the determination, courage and new friendships," says Magnan. "Months of observation and conversations with my wife and other women with this disease created an indelible emotional impression upon me. As an artist, I could not help but respond artistically."

According to Magnan, his sculptures reflect his interpretations of the conflict women go through with their body image and the essence of who they are. His sculptures express the range of emotions women often experience while undergoing treatment.

The public exhibition of body image ~ body essence – which is made possible with support of the MGH – is designed to raise awareness among women and medical professionals of the symptoms and occurrence of ovarian cancer.

The MGH preview was hosted by O.C.E.A.N. (Ovarian Cancer Education Awareness Network), a network of survivors and supporters based at the MGH.

For information about the exhibit, visit www.bodyimage-bodyessence.com. For more information about O.C.E.A.N., call (888) 206-5006.